DeMar DeRozan locker room rumors have intensified amid ongoing trade speculation involving the Sacramento Kings star. Recent comments from a former teammate shed new light on DeRozan’s true locker room presence, disputing claims of internal friction as trade talks heat up in 2025.
DeRozan, a key figure in the NBA since his Toronto Raptors days, has been at the center of swirling reports hinting at possible tension with teammates or the organization. These narratives have followed him since his move from Toronto to San Antonio and now appear again as he faces an uncertain future in Sacramento. However, one of his closest former teammates, Rudy Gay, who has played alongside DeRozan in Toronto, San Antonio, and Sacramento, has recently addressed these rumors directly, portraying a different story about their camaraderie and the locker room environment.
Rekindling Bonds: How DeRozan and Rudy Gay’s Friendship Defied Rumors
The reunion of DeMar DeRozan and Rudy Gay on the court, most recently observed by fans in Brooklyn, marks their third partnership across NBA teams. Their friendship dates back to their shared tenure with the Toronto Raptors, which was interrupted when Gay was traded to Sacramento, followed by DeRozan’s eventual move to San Antonio the next year. During their time together in Texas, despite occasional playful antics like Gay throwing DeRozan’s shoe, the pair faced intense scrutiny for what outsiders interpreted as moments of tension.
DeRozan himself has reflected positively on their time playing together in San Antonio. He remarked,
I ain’t gonna lie, one of the one of the best times in in in my career after that situation happened was to go to uh San Antonio and play with him,
highlighting the importance of Gay’s presence during a challenging transition. Gay in turn credits DeRozan with support during his career, revealing their mutual reliance during difficult times. DeRozan added humor to the story, noting,
Cause he [Rudy] really a negative person, like one of my most negative friends.
Though their dynamic might be misunderstood by outsiders, Rudy Gay clarified the nature of their interaction, explaining,
it would look like we were being disrespectful to each other, I remember sitting in practice one time and like they just looking at us like, ‘Are they about to fight?’ Like, ‘No, that’s how we talk.’
Their candid and sometimes sarcastic exchanges are a fundamental part of their friendship, not conflict.
This bond extends beyond their banter, with Gay emphasizing the loyalty they share. He stated,
The thing about it is we wouldn’t allow nobody else to talk to each other talk to us like that. You know what I mean? That’s real friendship right there.
DeRozan agrees, underscoring the reliability and trust that define their relationship, especially now when the veteran star faces significant career uncertainty.
DeRozan’s Veteran Role and Trade Prospects in 2025
DeMar DeRozan’s seasoned leadership has evolved throughout his NBA journey. Upon learning of his trade from Toronto to San Antonio, Gay was one of the first to connect with him, helping ease the shock. Describing their exchange, DeRozan shared,
I said, ‘Yeah bro, they just traded me’ … he said, ‘HAHA’.
Gay recalled,
After that, he told me it was to San Antonio and I laughed again.
Although Gay’s laughter was initially surprising, it reflected their usual rapport and support rather than dismissal of DeRozan’s feelings.
Following separate moves in 2021, Rudy Gay retired in 2024 while DeRozan joined the Sacramento Kings. Recently, trade rumors have intensified, fueled by an April altercation involving DeRozan at a Sacramento sushi bar and reports of his inclusion in possible multi-team blockbuster deals. Indications suggest his tenure with the Kings may be brief this offseason. The Chicago Bulls, previously considered potential suitors, are reportedly no longer in the mix, especially after DeRozan listed his former Chicago residence for $6.25 million, signaling his likely departure from the city.
Throughout these developments, DeRozan’s locker room reputation remains a critical factor for franchises examining him as a trade asset. With Rudy Gay likely to remain a trusted point of contact, DeRozan can count on a loyal advocate to attest to his positive influence and commitment within team environments.
Why DeMar DeRozan’s Locker Room Image Matters Amid Trade Uncertainty
The frequent speculation around DeRozan’s potential trades has often been accompanied by insinuations of behind-the-scenes discord. However, insights from Rudy Gay, who witnessed DeRozan’s character firsthand across multiple teams, challenge that narrative. Their long-standing friendship, filled with candid communication and genuine support, illustrates a different, more grounded reality about DeRozan’s role as a teammate.
As trade talks continue, DeRozan’s locker room presence, supported by voices like Gay’s, could influence how teams perceive his value beyond on-court performance. His demonstrated ability to foster trust and handle pressure may prove critical for suitors seeking leadership and stability in a high-stakes NBA offseason.
The coming weeks will determine whether DeRozan remains with Sacramento or moves to a new team, but what appears clear is that the locker room rumors do not fully capture the reality of his relationships and professional integrity. Regardless of the trade outcome, having allies such as Rudy Gay assures that DeRozan’s contributions extend well beyond his scoring and playmaking ability.